National Trust - Red House — Attraction in London

This is a lovely place to visit of you want 2-3 hrs peace and quiet not too far out of central London. The house and it's history are interesting and the gardens lovely. A real little oasis. I've been the the Red house many times over the yrs. Unfortunately on my last visit in May 22, I discovered a No of changes. The NT have closed their little tea room for no good reason that I could see, so now you can't even get a drink there! The second hand book shop/pottery shop on site now only takes cash....and who carries that these days! Lastly, the house which you used to be able to wander around at leasure, you now have to see on timed tours. Apparently this is to ensure people get all the right info on the place. My friend and I tried it but it was way too long and much of the detail was unnecessary. Several people were wandering off by the end, probably getting bored as we were. The lady was v nice but it was really long winded. In the past I'd managed to get all the info I'd needed about the place by just reading the info sheets in the different rooms as I'd walked round. The staff on site seemed annoyed about the changes and I can understand why. It certainly diminished my enjoyment of the place and I probably won't go back if it stays as is. So if you go...take your own snacks drinks etc and some cash. If not, there's an Asda down the Rd (That's where they're sending people now for food!). I'd have preferred one of their lovely cream teas any day! Come on NT! What's going on? Get your act together! Why change something thats...

I went to see The Red House by Phillip Webb on Saturday 9th August 2025 My tour began at 3pm (ADVANCE BOOKING STRONGLY RECOMMENDED- TheHouse is only open a few days per week and you must go on a tour to visit the inside which sometimes is fully booked!)... It was a building that I learned about 30 years ago when studying a degree in architecture 30 years ago, so I've wanted to see it in the flesh for some time.. The building was very interesting and I enjoyed my visit... And anyone interested in the Arts & Crafts movement should definitely pay a visit... But I would specifically like to pay tribute to the National Trust guide who conducted our tour... It was quite late in the day (I think we were the last group) but she was, informative, enthusiastic and passionate about what she had to say (sadly I've forgotten her name but I know she once lived in St Albans! But I'm sure the National Trust will know who she is from the date and time I have disclosed)... I myself worked as a tour guide, and know it can be very debilitating, saying the same thing over and over again throughout the course of the day... But this guide wasn't! In fact, she even stayed behind after the tour was finished and as I wandered back into a room, came in and spoke more about the house! Well done National Trust for finding such a great guide! And I hope she reads...

The former home of the artist WM Morris ( William ) and his wife. There is of course a great deal of art work,much better Morris and his wife but also by their friends. Subsequent owners covered much of the work up but it has been revealed one more for everyone to enjoy You need to book on their website as they offer a guided tour around the house. Red House belongs to the National Trust and entry is free for members. The tour is carried out by a National Trust expert tour guide. It's very informative and really gives an insight into the lives of the artistic couple and their artist friends. The house has a lovely garden with an artistic theme and flowers and plants complement the colour of the house. There is a tea room on site and public toilets. There is also a second hand bookshop that's very reasonable indeed. Please note that there is not really anywhere to park near the house. I used Just Park ( online or App ) and managed to park 0.4 miles away . Access to parts of the house and some of the garden would be difficult for wheelchair users. If you are I tested in WM Morris, his influence and work can be found at other National Trust Properties in the South East. National Trust membership is from £7.50 per month for individual membership but there are deals for couples,families and...